Harve Presnell is a Broadway veteran, who has starred in many musical plays, such as "The Unsinkable Molly Brown". In 1969, he worked with Clint Eastwood in "Paint Your Wagon" and more recently he was in "Face/Off (with John Travolta and Nicolas Cage, and also with Jamie Denton) and in the Oscar nominated feature film "Fargo" (with Frances McDormand).

His first appearence in "The Pretender" was in the 17th episode of the first season "Keys", playing the chairman of "The Centre" and Miss Parker's father.

Mr. Parker is the Chairman of “The Centre”, and Miss Parker's father. His wife, Catherine Parker, died of an apparent suicide. 

Specific information on Mr. Parker remains classified, although it is known he works on many high-level secret Centre projects. He maintains a somewhat distant, largely business-like relationship with his daughter. 

Recently, Mr. Parker took an unexpected leave of absence, replaced by the enigmatic Mr. Lyle. After a power struggle, Mr. Parker regained his position atop “The Centre” Tower.  

He was discovered to have one more son, whom he finds out to be Mr. Lyle, and he married Brigitte.